Trio face fitness tests ahead of S'hampton game

Bruce is set to delay naming his Birmingham side for the St Mary's clash until the eve of the match.

The extra 24 hours that Blues have to prepare for the match could prove to be vital in getting some of the club's walking wounded fit again.

Bruce would love to be able to include the trio of Lazaridis, Izzet and Clemence in his plans.

The loss of Lazaridis for the last seven games with a thigh strain has proved to be a major handicap as Bruce was keen to give the Australia international a run in the left-back role.

Izzet and Clemence have both been sidelined for one game, missing the goalless draw against Manchester United last weekend.

They were injured in the previous game with Newcastle when Izzet damaged his knee and Clemence suffered a slight tear in his calf after being sent on as a replacement for the Turkey international.

All three are set for fitness tests before Bruce finalises his team. Blues are bidding to secure their first away win of the season and only their second Premiership victory of the campaign.

They have not won in the league since beating Manchester City 1-0 in the third match of the season - six games ago.